The Hawler International Short Film Festival takes place in Erbil (Known as Hawler in Kurdish language) , a city with a history spanning over 6000 years. Renowned for its ancient heritage, Erbil boasts a rich cultural tapestry, shaped by the convergence of diverse cultures, languages, and religions. This harmonious blend of influences has created a unique environment where various cultural elements complement and enrich one another in daily life.
Our primary goal is to enhance storytelling through the captivating medium of cinema within this vibrant cultural landscape. We are committed to empowering filmmakers in the region by providing them with a platform to express their narratives in a compelling and artistic manner.
Furthermore, we aim to elevate the standards of filmmaking in Erbil and beyond by inviting influential and artistic short films from around the globe. We believe that exposure to high-quality international cinema will inspire and influence local filmmakers, encouraging them to raise the caliber of their work and contribute to the global cinematic dialogue.
Join us in Erbil, where history, culture, and cinema converge to celebrate the art of storytelling.
